This woman's Rs 24,000 crore modern-day palace outshines Antilia: A peek into her royal life

The palace features 170 rooms and is renowned for its grandeur, being four times larger than Buckingham Palace, highlighting the royal legacy of the Gaekwad dynasty.

Radhikaraje Gaekwad: Radhikaraje Gaekwad resides in the opulent Lakshmi Vilas Palace, a modern-day marvel valued at approximately Rs 24,000 crore. This palace, located in Vadodara, Gujarat, is not only the largest private residence in the world but also surpasses the grandeur of Mukesh Ambani's Antilia, which is valued at around Rs 15,000 crore. Constructed in 1890 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the palace spans an impressive 700 acres and boasts 170 rooms, making it four times larger than Buckingham Palace.

The architectural brilliance of this estate is attributed to British engineer Major Charles Mant, and it features lavish amenities including expansive gardens, a swimming pool, and even a private golf course. While Samarjitsinh Gaekwad, Radhikaraje's husband and the titular Maharaja of Baroda, manages the estate, part of it has been transformed into a museum that attracts thousands of visitors annually.

Even though they come from a royal family, not much is known about their personal wealth. However, it is estimated that the couple's net worth is around Rs 20,000 crore, based on their extensive property holdings across India.

Gujarat Tourism

Radhikaraje Gaekwad: The Modern Maharani of Baroda

Radhikaraje Gaekwad, the Maharani of Baroda, is a prominent figure in Indian royalty known for her progressive views and contributions to heritage conservation. She is married to Maharaja Samarjitsinh Gaekwad and has made significant impacts in various fields, including education and philanthropy.

Radhikaraje Gaekwad: Early Life and Family Background

Radhikaraje Gaekwad was born into the royal family of Wankaner, Gujarat. Her father, Dr. MK Ranjitsinh Jhala, was notable for renouncing his royal title to become an IAS officer, emphasising a life of simplicity and service.

• Parents and Childhood: Radhikaraje Gaekwad was born into the royal family of Wankaner, Gujarat. Her father, Dr. MK Ranjitsinh Jhala, renounced his royal title to become an IAS officer, focusing on wildlife preservation. This upbringing instilled a sense of humility and service in her from a young age.
• Marriage and Children: In 2002, she married Samarjitsinh Gaekwad, and together they have two daughters: Padmajaraje and Narayaniraje. The family resides in the opulent Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, which is not only their home but also a symbol of their royal legacy.

Radhikaraje Gaekwad: Contributions and Initiatives

Radhikaraje Gaekwad has been active in various initiatives aimed at preserving cultural heritage and empowering women. She has worked as a journalist and is involved with several organisations focused on heritage conservation and textile revival.

Radhikaraje is not just a royal figure; she is also actively involved in philanthropy and social causes. Her efforts include reviving traditional weaving techniques inspired by historical art, which also supports local artisans.

Turuhi

Laxmi Vilas Palace: A Royal Residence

The Laxmi Vilas Palace is not just a home but also a cultural landmark. It has opened sections for public visits with an entry fee of ?150, while an additional ?60 is required to access the museum within the palace complex.

The palace features stunning architecture and rich history, making it a popular destination for tourists. Visitors can explore its beautiful grounds and view exquisite paintings, including works by Raja Ravi Varma.

Visiting Information

• Address: Laxmi Vilas Palace Road, Vadodara
• Entry Fee: ?150 (additional ?60 for museum access)
• Timings: Typically open to visitors during the day; specific timings may vary.

Turuhi

Radhikaraje Gaekwad Net Worth

Radhikaraje Gaekwad's net worth is estimated at around ?20,000 crore, showcasing her family's immense wealth and the historical significance of their estate.

This financial standing allows her to engage in various philanthropic efforts while maintaining the royal legacy.

Radhikaraje Gaekwad: Public Perception and Controversies

Despite her royal status, Radhikaraje has faced criticism for her comments regarding the financial challenges faced by royal families after the abolition of the privy purse in 1971. Many viewed her remarks as insensitive given the broader socioeconomic context in India.

Radhikaraje Gaekwad represents a blend of tradition and modernity as she navigates her role as a Maharani in contemporary India. Through her initiatives in education, heritage conservation, and women's empowerment, she continues to inspire many while preserving the rich cultural legacy of her family.

Note: Figures may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available. For more informative articles on upcoming market fluctuations from around the world, please visit In Indiatimes Events.